EPA Urban Heat Island Effects

Improved air quality and lower greenhouse gas emissions: By reducing energy demand, trees and vegetation decrease the production of associated air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. They also remove air pollutants and store and sequester carbon dioxide.

Enhanced storm water management and water quality: Vegetation reduces runoff and improves water quality by absorbing and filtering rainwater.

Improved quality of life: Trees and vegetation provide aesthetic value, habitat for many species, and can reduce noise

Life Span

A reasonable estimate of the lifetime of trees is 100-150 years. Based on information from the USDA Forest Service [9], the lifetime of trees varies by region and species, but generally ranges from 50 years to 300 years of age. An average lifetime of trees planted in forests for long-term restoration purposes might be 100-150 years. Here are a few examples by region

In the Southeast, conifers may live 100-150 years, while hardwoods may live 150-200 years.

In the northeast and lake states, some conifers (e.g. white pine and red pine) may live 100-150 years, while Jack pine lives 80-100 years; mixed hardwoods (e.g. maples and oaks) might live beyond 150 years, while aspen and birch might only live 50-70 years.